How Do I Prevent Relapse?

If you or someone you love has successfully completed a drug rehab program, this is a huge accomplishment that deserves to be celebrated. But as happy as you may be feeling, there’s bound to be some worries hanging over your head. One of the biggest concerns is a relapse.

There is no magic wand that will wave away the desire to use drugs and alcohol. Staying clean and sober takes a lot of work and diligence. It’s a lifelong journey that you must be prepared for.

What To Do To Prevent Relapse

The following are important steps to take to prevent yourself from falling into a relapse.

Avoid Tempting Situations

You may think that you’re ready to be in certain situations, or you may even want to prove yourself to others. But this is very dangerous. In the early days of recovery, it’s best to play it safe and avoid temptation as much as possible.

Avoid going to places that will remind you of your past behaviors. Also, avoid people who may serve as emotional triggers.

Establish A Strong Support Network

During your addiction, you probably had a group of using friends but no true friends. Now it’s time to establish a support system with people who support your recovery. These people should be positive and able to support you in times of need. Sever ties with unhealthy relationships. Delete phone numbers or block social media accounts so that you’re not tempted.

Create A Healthy Schedule

Create a healthy schedule before leaving treatment. This way, you’ll know what your days will look like right off the bat. Your schedule should include time for treatments, meetings, daily living activities, work and family and free time. Make sure that your free time involves constructive activities such as a favorite hobby. Boredom can be a trigger.

Avoid Getting Too Comfortable

Don’t get complacent in your recovery. This is very dangerous because you could end up in situations that you’re not ready for. In the early days of recovery, you should be diligent about attending 12-step meetings and counseling. As you move further out, not all recovery efforts will be necessary, but you still need things that work for you. Perhaps becoming a sponsor or volunteering your time could be the key to relapse prevention.

Relapse Is Not The Ultimate Failure

If you do relapse, don’t look at yourself as a failure. This type of negative thinking will keep you in a dark place. Instead, reach out for help, attend counseling and start up your 12-step meetings again. Understand what led to the relapse and how you can prevent it from happening in the future. Relapse is not the ultimate failure.

The River Source can help you or your loved one safely and effectively recover from addiction. We will develop a customized treatment plan that includes sober living, counseling and holistic therapies. We will also create an aftercare plan for relapse prevention.